Mainstream Winter 2012_B

What’s Inside
Volume XXXII, No. 1
Winter 2012
Aux Report Card----------3
On-Line Testing-----------4
Strategic Initiatives
Finance------------------------5
We Like Our Work--------6
By: Richard Martin, District Commodore
This time of year, the newly elected Division
Commanders and Flotilla Commanders have
chosen their Staff Officers and filled out the
required forms to make their unit’s transition
to the New Year a smooth one. Of course,
there are many things to do and that’s why
it’s a good idea to review the Administrative
Needs Calendar on the District web site at:
http://a091.uscgaux.info/9CRadmin.php just
to make sure you to touch all the bases.
Check sheets are helpful with some of the routine items, but what about the not
so routine items like our Four Strategic Initiatives, and The Ninth Coast Guard
District’s “Great Lakes Recreation Boating and Water Safety Campaign Plan”,
a.k.a. D9INST 16750.
While our Strategic Initiatives aren’t really new, I think it is very important that
everyone knows what we would like to achieve as a District; because it will take
everyone pulling together to make it happen. It is necessary that the District
Captains convince each Division Commander to work toward achieving these
Strategic Initiatives. Division Commanders need to engage the proper Staff
Officers, and all their Flotilla commanders; and it is imperative that each Flotilla
Commander engages his Flotilla Staff Officers, so that each member becomes
involved. Our Strategic Initiatives are:
1. Increase our Public Education – The ‘Auxiliary’s Service priority’ as stated in
the Commandants Auxiliary Policy Statement is “Promoting and Improving
Recreational Boating Safety”; and that is what Public Education is all about. It
also helps us meet our next strategic initiative because Public Education
traditionally provided us with most of our current members.
Each flotilla needs to conduct at least one Public Education class, and
preferably more. This is our opportunity to save lives through education, while
telling our story and improving our Public Affairs image. Did you know that
Increasing Public Education is also going to be the number one National Strategic
Goal in 2012.
Continued on page 2
Page 1
Program Visitors----------7
Marine Safety
Training-----------------------7
Kayaking &
Canoeing----------------------8
CG Festival-------------------9
Attracting New
People------------------------10
Information
Systems---------------------10
Detroit River
Readiness-------------------11
Preventing
Accidents-------------------12
AMIS Update---------------14
What are Your
Plans-----------------------------15
Cold Weather
& Ice------------------------------16
Strategic Initiatives, continued from page 1
2. Increase our membership, diversity and retention – We are losing members through
attrition and we not only need to replace those members who are leaving, but we also need new
members to create an atmosphere of growth and enthusiasm. New members provide more
support for our activities and will provide future leaders to help guide us in the years ahead.
Succession planning is a vital to sustaining the Auxiliary. New members are not only vital to our
future, but keep in mind that teaching new members also reinvigorates our older members.
3. Promote Non-Traditional Support of the Coast Guard – The Auxiliary is loaded with
talented members who are willing to help the Coast Guard. We have untapped skills that can be
used to help at the Sectors, Boat Stations, Air Stations and Cutters. There is a need for folks to
help with income tax forms, gate guard duty, skilled tradesmen of all sorts, AuxChef’s (on Cutters
too), Webmasters, and Radio Watch Standers. Air Stations and Boat Stations both need Radio
Watch Standers, and they will train you.
In mid-January, the Auxiliary Directory will be updated with hundreds of new skill sets to
replace the Patriot Readiness data base. Please update your profile so we can use data sorts to
locate needed talent. It is also important to use individual email addresses for future emergency
communications. We cannot communicate properly with his and her email addresses.
4. Support the Implementation of SABOT – To improve our
SAR skills, and our reputation throughout the Coast Guard; the
District is actively assisting the OTO’s in their effort to teach the
current Boat Crew techniques used by the Active Duty.
Participation is voluntary and if you become proficient you will
be a true asset to the Auxiliary and the Coast Guard. So keep an
eye out for opportunities to attend classes and on the water
training.
In addition to our Four Strategic Initiatives, there is also The
Ninth Coast Guard District’s, “Great Lakes Boating and Water
Safety Campaign Plan” and it can be found online at:
http://www.d9.uscgnews.com/go/doc/443/1099391/
On page 2, the Safety Campaign Plan states the U.S. Coast
Guard Auxiliary is expected to “take a lead role in the execution
of the Campaign Plan”. It also states, “Vessel Safety Checks
…helps boaters insure their craft complies with Federal boating
regulations.” And it goes on to state “Educationally, the
Auxiliary teaches boating safety to recreational boaters and
paddlers of all ages. The Auxiliary operates safety and regatta patrols and is an integral part of the
Coast Guard Search and Rescue Team.”
On page 3, the Safety Campaign Plan states, “While it is true that a large percentage of the
Great Lakes’ surface area freezes over during the winter months, the fact is water-related
recreational activity continues year-around, whether the water is “soft” or “hard”. Therefore, the
Campaign Plan will be executed year round.”
The Performance Goal of the Campaign Plan is to “Reduce
Loss of Life”. “…the specific goal of the Campaign Plan is to
reduce the number of preventable water related fatalities by 10
percent, per year, during 2011 and 2012. The initial baseline is
66.”
While the Campaign Plan goes on to stress the importance of
cooperation between the U.S. Coast Guard, the U.S. Coast
Guard Auxiliary and other Safety Professionals at both the
Federal and State levels, the Auxiliary is responsible for
Continued on page 3
Page 2
Strategic Initiatives, continued from page 2
implementing portions of the Campaign Plan in the area of: Public Education, Vessel
Safety Checks, Safety Patrols, Regatta Patrols, Beach Patrols, Ice Patrols, PA booths at
Boat Shows, and all the while, stressing the importance of wearing life jackets. For
details on objectives and strategies, please read pages 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12 & 13 of the
Campaign Plan.
The EXCOM will be discussing the Great Lakes Recreational Boating and Water
Safety Campaign Plan in the weeks ahead with the thought of establishing an incentive
for the Divisions to meet their goals as previously submitted to the Commodore. There
are four goals associated with the Campaign Plan we plan to stress, and they are
closely related to our Four Strategic Initiatives. The goal related items for 2012 we plan
to measure are: the number of Public Education hours, the number of Vessel Safety
Checks, the number of Safety (MOM & SAR) Patrols and the Number of new members
recruited.
At present we are considering a set of Fall Conference orders for the Division that meets
their goals and also has the highest level of performance in each specified areas. There will be
a total of four sets of orders. One Division could win them all, or four different Divisions could
each win one set of orders or any combination. We also are considering buying pizza for each
Division that meets all its goals. This means that if you want your Division to win, you must
turn in your 7030’s in a timely manner so that we can make the calculations sometime in
August.
AUXILIARY REPORT CARD
By: Llorens (Joe) Chenevert, District Chief of Staff
In October Commodore Martin and I attended the National Flag Conference in
Tampa Florida. It’s always interesting to meet with colleagues from all over the
United States. It provides an opportunity to exchange ideas and hear the challenges
and triumphs experienced by other districts. For me it’s a reminder that the Coast
Guard Auxiliary is a pretty large organization and we play a crucial part in it. Listed
below are some figures from the National Commodore’s report that emphasize this
fact. It’s a comparison of our efforts nationally between the years 2010 and
November 2011.
2010
2011 (November)
Membership
31250
31478
Coxswain
3132
3005
Crew
4676
4624
Marine Dealer Visits
57409
62185
Public Education Hrs.
32634
32114
Instructors
6026
5935
Facilities/Surface
3517
3214
Facilities/Air
213
209
Vessel Exams
105896
108724
Safety Missions
70455
64919
Page 3
Continued on page 4
Auxiliary Report Card, continued from page 4
There will more information on these goals and incentives in the months ahead.
The 2011 figures show that we face challenges of working together to increase our
public education efforts; increase the number of coxswain/crew; and raise the number
of operational missions and hours. There are a variety of
reasons behind the current need for improvement which I
won’t address at this point.
It’s true we’re below last years’ statistics, but there is one
overall figure that I’m proud of any way you slice it. The
Auxiliary contributed 4,955,689 hours in 2010. Based on a
conservative estimate of $25/hr. we saved the Coast Guard
$125,000,000. Thank you for your part in that savings and
please make sure all of your hours are documented.
On Line Testing
By: Albert W. Plaehn, Auxiliary Testing Administrator 9CR
At the present time I am holding a number of exams, which were taken on line, but the training missions have
not been completed.
Please remember that just because you take the exam, you are not qualified in the programs until the training
missions are complete. You should notify your FC when an online exam is taken so they have a record of it and can
help set up the necessary training missions. I check with AUXINFO every week for training mission input. When
training is done, I forward the necessary paper work to Ron View DSO-IS for entry into AUXDATA..
The following exams are currently being held, Vessel Examiner –15, Recreational Boating Safety Program
Visitor—5, and Instructor Development Course (PE)—11. Please try and complete the associated training missing
so we can get you certified and ready to go in 2012.
Finance
By: Ron View, DSO-FN
At the end of 2011 Flotilla Commanders and their FSO-FN’s normally concerned with
collecting membership dues. They may also have processed disenrolling members that have
not paid. Just a reminder do not stop after you send the paperwork in. After sending
paperwork in ask you SO-IS officer for a roster and check the roster to make sure the
members you submitted for disenrollment are no longer on your roster. It is the responsibility
of the Flotilla Commander to make sure those members are taken off the roster.
On 31 December 2011, I downloaded a district roster from AUXDATA. That is the date and
roster I used to bill your division for annual dues (2012). You will be charged for the members
on this roster. That is per our district standing rules.
When your flotilla is billed for dues (annual or new member) this bill does not need
approval from the flotilla or division to pay. There is no need to take a vote on paying Annual
or New Member Dues. When billed for member dues please pay in a timely manner (which I
consider two weeks).
Page 4
We like our work three at a time
By: Wayne Hempeck, FSO-PA 30-05
Out west there is a division of Ninth Central Auxiliary District that is so far west that one must travel through
the entire width of Ninth Western Auxiliary before arriving in the realm of Division 30, an area one and one half
times the size of the rest of the district.
The weekend of August 13-14-15 was typical
of Flotilla 30-05’s many activities during the
operational portion of the year, from hard water to
hard water. At the USCG Auxiliary SAR detachment
at Warroad, Minnesota, located on the Lake of the
Woods, five members of the Flotilla were assisting
regular and reserve Coast Guard personnel with
area familiarization patrols. An Auxiliary aircraft
from Bayfield Wisconsin was also conducting
flyovers to assist in the familiarization process.
While on the water, Auxiliary members were testing
a new long range antenna configuration for the
communication site located at the Detachment
station. The “Station” is the old fire station donated
by the City of Warroad for Auxiliary operations. On
August 23 the Coast Guard will man the station for
the rest of the summer on a 24/7 basis for SAR and
law enforcement on Lake of the Woods. This new
presence by the Coast Guard has never been
attempted on this unique inland lake that the United
States shares with Canada. Lake of the Woods
comprises the chimney portion of Minnesota, the
Auxiliarists Howard Gladwin (standing) and Dave Barnick of
results of an old 1840’s treaty with England.
Flotilla 30-05 man the PA Booth. Photo by Julie Gladwin 30-05.
On the same weekend, in Fargo, North
Dakota 170 miles Southwest of Warroad, four
members of 30-05 manned a booth where one of the largest air shows in the mid-west took place with crowds
estimated at 35,000 for both days. People were drawn out by the
Navy’s flight demonstration team, the Blue Angels, and they viewed aircraft displays from all over the world. All five
services of the U.S. Armed Forces were represented at the show. The Auxiliary held the spot for the Coast Guard by
answering numerous inquiries about Coast Guard recruiting
and Coast Guard Academy admission. By handing out all of the
boxes of Auxiliary literature carefully stocked for the event, the
group of four promoted boating safety and hopefully
attracted new members for the Auxiliary.
On Regatta Patrol, L-R Coxswain Sue Thurlow
30-07, Raymond Kral 30-04 and Tom Thurlow.
Photo by Wayne Hempeck, PA 30-05
At the same time, 150 miles east of Fargo at Walker,
Minnesota in central Minnesota, seven members of flotilla 3005, two members of 30-07 Ash River, MN and one member of
30-04 Duluth, were providing screening and safety patrol for the
annual Leech Lake Regatta, this year marking its fortieth
anniversary. The Leech Lake Regatta three day event
celebrated with a field of 60 sailboats from all over the Tri-state
area. The Auxiliary plan was to have three surface vessels on
hand for the event. However, the week before, the 20 foot
Auxiliary Vessel Cape May (30-05) suffered mechanical failure
of the lower unit. That left two boats, the 33 foot Auxiliary
Continued on page 5
Page 5
We Like our Work..., continued from page 6
Vessel Rausie (30-05) and the 19 foot Auxiliary Vessel Eagle (30-07). At 0430 on Saturday, the first race
day, one Coxswain/owner came down with a debilitating medical problem, so boat two was scratched.
With only one vessel patrolling a ten mile long race course, it became apparent that we needed to rename
the hard working boat,”Lone Eagle”. By swapping out crew members on a regular basis the lone vessel
stayed in the game, start to finish. Light winds and moderate to no waves precluded the need for heavy
tow capabilities. This was unlike last year where we were working in twenty five mile an hour winds,
resulting in six cases including two medical and an additional five safety standbys for capsized vessels
that eventually righted themselves. Our communications site on Leech Lake was provided by members of
30-05, who actually live in Duluth. They monitored VHF-FM channels 16, 23 and the Regatta committee
frequency. The COMMs site even picked up the Auxiliary aircraft in its transit back from Lake of the
Woods to Bayfield, WI.
We presented the Auxiliary Lighthouse award at the awards banquet. This Flotilla award is for the
safest boat, based on our own safety criteria for the race participants. The name is for the symbolic
lighthouse that guards the entrance of the headquarters for the club harbor.
Did we feel tired? Yes! Have fun? Absolutely! We shared our debrief fellowship via cell phones on
open speaker calls! You see, we enjoy working with each other, in spite of the impact of “large
distances.”Our flotilla stretches approximately 250 miles by 250 miles with some members actually living
further away. Most of our communications is via internet, cell phone and E-mail. We do recruit new
members and train them locally by whoever is the closest; the mentor concept works well for us. We also
work with Eighth Western Auxiliary District, which has operational control of the Red River Valley that
includes Fargo, ND and Grand Forks, ND during the spring floods. An upcoming submission will cover
that process. Their busy summer of operations on the Mississippi and events happening in the
Minneapolis/St. Paul Metro area precludes them working on the three main PR shows along the Red
River Valley. As good neighbors we are happy to help them out. There is now next year to plan for all our
numerous events. Let the games begin, again.
Blue Angles perform at the Fargo, North Dakota Air Show. Photo by Julie Gladwin 30-05.
Page 6
Program Visitors
By: Mark Cole, DSO-PV
Just because colder weather is upon us doesn't mean the Program Visitor withdraws
from his/her activity for the next few months. A Program Visitor can be just as busy now
as when the weather was 80 degrees and the Recreational boaters were enjoying our
waterways skiing, tubing, or just cruising.
Right now you have the hunters and avid fishermen their still getting out on the
water and there just as apt to accidentally fall into the water as a recreational boater, only they are more likely to
drown due to hypothermia. Cold weather boating is very dangerous. The average hunter or cold weather fishermen
doesn’t think of drowning as a person does in warmer weather. They'll say “Well we're not on the move as boaters
in warmer weather; others aren't out speeding by causing larger wakes”. But they'll stand up to take that prefect
shot, or to reel in that trophy fish, and before you know it, they have lost their balance and the unexpected happens.
Ice fishing is right around the corner. People getting out on the ice enjoying the weather again – not thinking of
what could happen. Before you know it they have fallen in and in the matter of minutes they have been overcome
with hypothermia and end up dying.
Now is the time of year Flotilla's are ramping up offering their safety boating classes , getting the word out to our
marine dealers and our partners.
So as Program Visitors we are needed year around. We need to be out there distributing cold weather literature.
Contact the fishing clubs offer to come to one of their meetings and speak about cold water and ice safety.
Marine Safety Training
By: Kim Cole, DSO-MS
The training that started at Sector Detroit is now moving into more areas. There
has been a good question brought up regarding the training being made available.
While the Trident device is the ending bonus on this training, the fact that this is
training that will provide the different Sectors and MSU's with qualified and trained
Auxiliarists that can do jobs that is asked of them is what the training is about.
Anyone who wants to earn the “Trident” device must remember that there are certain requirements before you
can apply for this device. There are certain educational portions that must be completed and passed, ICS 100, 200,
210 (or 300 instead), 700 and 800 must be obtained as well. The person working toward this must have 4 LOD
(Letter of Designation) from different PQS (Performance Qualification Standard) and finally they must have 5 years
of Marine Safety hours (96 hours per year minimum-does not have to be consecutive).
The only item I have not spoken of is the “Conditional” Trident. The Conditional Trident is a temporary device
that can be obtained if the Auxiliarist has completed all required items with the exception of the 5 years of service.
The Conditional can only be held if the Auxiliarist is actively working toward the permanent Trident device. If for
any reason the person holding a Conditional device stops working toward their required hours for a permanent
device, the Conditional device can be revoked.
If you have any questions on the Marine Safety training and the Trident device please contact your FSO-MS or
(in Sector Detroit) DSO-MS Kim Cole, (in Toledo) Pat Groves, (in Sector Soo) ADSO-MS George Oddy. We will be
happy to answer any questions that you may have.
Page 7
Kayaking & Canoeing
By: Richard L. Carver, FC 28-01
Kayaking and canoeing is big and it is also big business in the Apostle Islands on western Lake
Superior. Literally thousands embark on the big lake and into the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore
and Wilderness Area. With those numbers, the potential for; and actuality of kayaking and canoeing
mishaps goes up considerably. Significant accidents and deaths have occurred in recent years.
A group of Kayakers prepare to get underway at the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore Park. Photo by Richard Carver
The Apostle Islands Flotilla, 28-01 of the 9th Central Region, took action to educate and inform these
many boaters about the hazards inherent in Lake Superior. Year round water temperatures that
challenge any boater and are a particular challenge to small craft like a kayak increase the hazard for
many first time visitors. Uniformed members of the Apostle Islands Flotilla struck an agreement with
National Park Service managers to “stand watch” for Recreational Boating Safety at two beachfront
locations in the Park that are most popular with the boating public.
Equipped with the latest information on weather and sea conditions, courtesy of the National
Weather Service, volunteers handed out over 2000 “If Found, Contact” orange stickers and many more
Paddle Smart and related brochures. They shared general information about boating safety practices
and specific information about successfully negotiating Lake Superior. With the assistance of a local
kayak outfitter, they were able to provide important information on matching proper equipment to the
conditions on the lake.
This past summer, Auxiliarists from Flotilla 28-01 interacted with more than 1060 kayakers at Meyer’s
Beach and Little Sand Bay entry points, spending 157 man-hours of watch standing and, according to
the OIC of Coast Guard Station Bayfield, WI, results included a 50% reduction in callouts for paddle
sports this summer. The National Park Service applauded the effort and the Auxiliary will again be a
guest at the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore next summer.
Page 8
U.S. COAST GUARD FESTIVAL 2011
By: Sharron Taylor, 20-09
Festival 2011 marked the celebration of 221 years of service. Grand Haven, Michigan, bears the title of “Coast
Guard City USA”. Grand Haven is the home of the Sector Field Office, and Station Grand Haven.
A parade of pride and patriotism entered the port of Grand Haven with the U.S. Coast Guard cutters; the
Mackinaw, Biscayne Bay, Katmai Bay, and the Adler, which moored at the Coast Guard basin at Escanaba Park.
9CR Color Guard Team at the Memorial Wall. Photo by Sharon Taylor, 20-09
A memorial ceremony was held on Friday moring, 5 August 2011 for 16 Auxiliary members from Ninth Central
Region, who have crossed the bar this past year. The memorial was opened with our Color Guard Team (Mike
Taylor, Firuz Ardan, Division 22, and Nancy & Don Pryjmak, Division 20), and the ceremony was conducted by the
President of the Past Captains Association. Guests included Vice Admiral Sally Brice-O’Hara, Admiral M. Parks,
CDR Karl Willis, 9CR COMO Richard Martin Past COMO Gerri Smith, Chief of Staff Joe Chevevert, plus our
COMO’s from 9WR and 9ER. A tolling of the bells ceremony was performed and a wreath was placed at the wall.
Rev. King Hanna (Division 22) gave the
benediction.
Also on Friday, a memorial was held to
honor our active duty members who have died
in the line of duty this past year, which is an
annual tradition which began in 1947 to honor
the crew of the Escanaba, a USCG ice cutter,
formerly stationed in Grand Haven which sank
during war time duties.
The memorial began with the USCG Honor
Guard Drill Team standing in formation. A
wreath was placed at the monument, and a 21
gun salute was fired.
Saturday, 6 August 2011 began with the
annual parade, which was led by Vice-Admiral
Sally Brice-O’Hara, Vice Commandant of the
U.S. Coast Guard as Grand Marshal.
During the festival, Washington Ave., served
as a midway for carnival rides, games, and
food. Per tradition, the festival came to a close
with a massive fireworks display.
Waiting for the memorial service to begin, with the USCG
Makinaw in the background. Photo by Sharon Taylor, 20-09
Page 9
Attracting New People to the Auxiliary
By: Agnes Feldman, CDCR Div 26, ADSO-PB
At this time the Auxiliary is struggling to attract new members, especially a younger and a more
diverse group of members. While there are a lot of people within the Auxiliary working on innovative
and effective methods to attract new members, I would like to focus on a concept called “the law of
attraction” This concept says that if a person or an organization is good and functioning well they will
attract good members to them.
This concept can be easily
translated to the Auxiliary. If our
meetings are fun, conflict-free
events in which all members
can exchange ideas freely; If
when our members appear in
public are enthusiastic about
the Coast Guard and the
Auxiliary; we will be viewed in
our communities in a positive
way. While there are many
quality people who are seeking
organizations in which to
volunteer, we must project a
positive image in order to
encourage these volunteers that
we are an organization worthy
of the time, talent and treasure
they have to offer. We should
always be mindful of the number of
worthy organizations which are
seeking good volunteers.
A Vessel Exam is an excellent way to introduce new people to the
Auxiliary. Photo, Maryann Gregoria
I travel a lot to attend meetings, to assist on patrols and to support public affairs events and I can
tell you that there are some flotillas which very quickly send out the message that this is a very good
organization filled with people who are really excited about what they do and the mission they have.
When I come in contact with these flotillas I can’t help but feel that this would be a great volunteer
opportunity for any person. There are, however, other flotillas which send out a very different
message.
I would suggest that in our efforts to recruit and retain members we should all take a good long look
at how we conduct our meeting and how we motivate our members. Here are some thoughts to keep
in mind.
Ÿ Are we still enthusiastic about our mission?
Ÿ Are welcoming and friendly to new people?
Ÿ Do members leave personal agendas at the meeting door?
Ÿ Do we work cooperatively to solve problems or do we try to download solutions?
Ÿ Are we more interested in our closed group of friends rather than how we can
maximize the effectiveness of the whole flotilla?
When we have objectively evaluated how we do things, we should make a conscious effort to make
necessary changes which would make our flotillas more attractive to the potential member.
Remember the Law of Attraction is a very powerful force.
Page 10
Auxiliary Participation in Detroit River
Readiness
By: Joseph D. Macri, District Planning Officer
After three years of comprehensive planning, from Table-Top through Functional to Full Scale
Exercise, the two day “Detroit River Readiness” exercise was conducted.
The scenario for day one was a simulated terrorist attack on the Detroit Princess Riverboat on the
Detroit River, just south of Belle Isle. Approximately 60 agencies from the US and Canada participated to
engage in emergency response, firefighting, search and rescue and transporting victims from the river to
waiting ambulances ashore.
Detroit River Skyline. Stock Photo, John Socha
Day two activities involved a simulated oil spill downriver near the City of Trenton .Woodchips were
dropped into the river simulate oil flow and recovery teams worked to divert and contain the flow.
During day one of this event we saw Auxiliarists filling approximately sixty positions. On the water
twenty- one Auxiliary members worked on safety/security zone enforcement, media-VIP transport,
exercise control/evaluation, exercise safety and as actor vessels. Three members worked as exercise
staff.
On day two we had twenty one members aboard boats and one assigned to exercise staff.
In addition we had seven members who were inside the Command Center working alongside various
staff members, participating in the overall operation and control of the event. These were Auxiliarists
who had taken the advanced ICS courses and were putting their knowledge to practical use.
It was a good experience for all and our participation was appreciated by the Sector Detroit Planning
Team, who issued a thirteen page Auxiliary Operations Plan for the event.
Page 11
Preventing Accidents,
A Primary Goal of the Auxiliary
By: Patricia Groves, DSO-PE
The primary goal of the District Nine, 2011 Great Lakes
Recreational Boating and Water Safety Campaign Plan is
to reduce recreational boating accidents and water
fatalities. Admiral Parks said: "Simply put, this campaign
plan is about saving lives and preventing - preventable
marine accidents.” In addition to being the designated
coordinator of the national recreational boating safety
program, Parks stated that “The Coast Guard has a moral
imperative to use our unique skill-sets and professional
training to assist those who use our nation's waterways for
work or play."
The auxiliary plays a key role in meeting this goal
through a variety of activities. While many of us joined the
auxiliary because we love the water, and the auxiliary
provides us with the opportunity to develop and practice
our seamanship skills through boat patrols and to learn
Two Auxiliarists plan the days patrol. Photo John Socha
the essential skills to assist in SAR cases on the water,
we must remember that our first and foremost
responsibility is prevention. For 2012, improving PE is the National Commodore's number one strategic initiative.
Prevention is crucial to saving lives and taxpayer dollars. For these reasons the primary responsibility of the
coast Guard Auxiliary is Public Education. Time Magazine reported in 2009 that a Coast Guard patrol boat costs
$1,147 per hour to operate, and if the rescue requires the use of a C-130 turboprop plane, the bill increases at a rate
of $7,600 an hour. These are only the hard costs associated with operating the various rescue tools. It does not
include man hours or money tied to the training of the personnel. The potential cost savings through an excellent
Public Education program is easy to understand based on these numbers.
In spite of our knowledge of the importance of Public Education, the auxiliary Public Education performance has
dropped by 32% from previous years. As of October, 2010 the Ninth District Central Region ranked 14th out of 16 in
reported number of PE completions.
While it is easy to cite the stiff
competition from other public education
vendors, it is imperative that we look in
new directions to increase our impact in
the safe boating arena. Not only do we
have a long history of doing excellent
By: Ron View DSO-IS
public
education, we still have an
illa Commanders have checked with your SO-IS on the activity of your members.
You should
experienced
group of volunteers who
s have met their requirements for each qualification they have. You should know which of your
can
provide
an
excellent product to the
o Re-Year (REYR.). I look for a REYR list to come from national sometime in January.
public!
REYR, about a month ago national started to email members informing them if they were
Ninth
r qualification requirements. This is something new this year. Therefore, membersThe
should
notCentral District Great
Lakes
Recreational
Boating and Water
how up on the REYR list in 2012.
Safety Campaign Plan identifies the
ceived reports from you SO-IS officer I suggest you at least ask for a Training Management
need for partnering with other groups
that address boating and water safety.
We need to identify who these groups
time you read this you have all sent in your (ANSC 7007) Annual Unit Officers Report.
are and meet with them to develop plans
An Air Station Detroit Helo conducting a lift exercise. Photo, “Doc” Borth.
Continued on page 13
Information System
Page 12
Preventing Accidents, continued from page 12
that interface with each other, rather than
continue to compete. I hear the complaint
that the State Departments of Natural
Resources offer the ABS class on line and
often for free. How can we work with our
states to encourage those people who utilize
this online opportunity to take more advanced
courses in navigation, seamanship, etc. with
the Coast Guard Auxiliary?
How can we compete with the states, and
Paul Shooshanian and Ray Roberts from Flotilla 18-11,
now even the Power Squadron, who offer on- patrol on the Detroit River. Photo, John Socha
line courses for various aspects of boating
safety? The good news is that, soon, our district will be able to utilize a webinar program
purchased by the district to offer online courses.
These courses will be offered through web cam
system and may be more useful and interesting than
the technology utilized by some of our competitors!
One major problem with our safe boating classes is
lack of advertising. It is important to work with our PA
officers to develop effective advertising strategies.
Some forms of advertising cost money, but there are
ways to advertise with little cost. Contacting local
newspapers and offering articles on boating safety
with an attached list of our course offerings is a good
way to promote our classes without expense. Also, an
article creates interest among the public rather than
simply engaging those who are already aware of the
need to take a safe boating class. Developing a
schedule for the upcoming year and making the whole
array of class offerings available at boat shows and
Boat crews at a briefing before a Regatta Patrol.
other PA events can increase awareness of our
Photo, John Socha
programs. Never underestimate the word of mouth as
an advertising tool! Having a full list of upcoming
classes available at every class can give the students a tool to use in telling their boating friends
about classes that are coming up in the near
future.
If you offer the ABS class and it is a positive
experience for those in attendance, offer them a
list of the more advanced courses that will be
offered by your division in the near future. Give
a discount for signing up for an additional class
and also offer discounts to those who make
referrals to friends.
If we continue to do the same things that we
have done in the past, we will be left behind by
other public education vendors. We can
improve our performance in Public Education!
The requirement is to try new things and talk to
each other about what strategies are effective.
Paul Guinnane 20-01, at the controls during a patrol.
Photo, John Socha
Page 13
AUXILIARY INCIDENT MANAGEMENT
SYSTEM UPDATE
By: Ray Roberts, DCAPT - South
Good news! The District testing of the Auxiliary Incident Management System
(AIMS) began in late September 2011 and continues as the District explores all the
system capabilities and intricacies. The first testing phase is concentrating on
using email media only and began with the members of the District EXCOM. It
went well and helped to identify some problems in the transfer software that
extracts the member contact data from AUXDATA which is used by AIMS. After
some time and help from the AIMS technical staff, the problems were resolved and
the testing continued to move forward. As of the end of November 2011, the testing
populations used have ranged from the District EXCOM to the Flotilla level.
The testing so far has highlighted several issues. The first issue continues to be
that the AUXDATA contact information for many members is not accurate or
current. The second is that many members do not check their email within a timely
manner. And the third is that members when contacted do not take the appropriate
steps to acknowledge receipt of the message. And last, it appears some members
may have active “spam” filters which do not allow all emails to be accepted or seen.
Unfortunately, there is nothing AIMS can do about these situations. The resolution
rests with the individual members. So please (1) check that your individual contact
information in AUXDATA is current and accurate, (2) check your email activity at
least once every 24-48 hours, (3) acknowledge all AIMS messages, and (4) adjust
your computer spam filters to allow messages from AIMS. The next testing phase
will focus on the use of the telephone as the contact medium.
Remember that members can update their personal contact information by
logging into the Auxiliary eDirectory, or by completing and submitting the current
ANSC 7028 Change of Member Information Form via the IS chain. National has
announced that the new member skill codes in AUXDATA are scheduled for launch
sometime after the beginning of 2012. Once the new skill codes are launched in
AUXDATA and the capability to update the skill codes is made available to the
members, AIMS will be able to send messages to those members with specific skill
codes. This will greatly enhance the District’s non-traditional support initiative and
allow AIMS the capability to immediately contact members with the needed skill
sets. District will make the announcement as soon as the new AUXDATA skill
codes are launched. Stay alert and stay tuned, AIMS will be contacting you soon!
Until then, enjoy the holidays!
Page 14
What Are Your Plans This Winter?
By Joe Gregoria, Past DCAPT – South
Whether we like it or not, we now have hard water (ice). I don’t know about you
but I miss the warm waters and sunny days of summer. As the New Year starts, now
is the time to make plans for the long and cold winters that we get in the Midwest. I
don’t know about you but I’m thinking of taking an AUXOP course, after all I can’t
watch football, hockey, golf, Storage Wars, Pawn Stars, and Reality TV everyday.
In our Flotilla, we take the winter months to start new Crew and Coxswains
training. We do this so our trainees will be ready to start their on the water training
and sign-offs in May. Our Flotilla also made arrangements in November, for a spring
Safe Boating Class that will be held at the local community center. Additionally at
our November Flotilla meeting we took the time to listen to our members and ask
what they would like to learn over the winter. So when January rolls around, we will have already developed a list of
training topics that we will be starting.
Before we know it, we will be doing Vessel Exams and it will be Safe Boating Week. Our Division Commanders
will be gathering information from the Flotillas on the locations where we will be holding our VE Surges. Winter is a
great time for the Division and Flotilla Commanders, to start working with the Vessel Examiner, and Public Affairs
Officers to help with their VE Surge plans for May. As well, over the winter is the appropriate time to contact the
marina, city, or county boat launch to arrange for Vessel Exam dates. The VE officer working with the PA Officer
can also start making plans for advertising the VE surge campaigns, and also get articles ready for the local
newspaper.
I have always stated in the Auxiliary, we need a minimum of three months to a do an activity with finesse. We
tend to forget that we will only meet three times in three months. I never like to be rushed with any project. When
you start early, you have the opportunity to use a Gantt Chart1 as a project management tool, this is a very effective
way to plan and show your progress and assign tasks that need to be done.
So what are your plans for the winter? Are you going to do some training? Is your objective to become qualified
as an Instructor, Crew, Coxswain, Vessel Examiner, Program visitor, or work on SABOT? Maybe you would like to
know more about your position as a Staff Officer, Flotilla Commander or Division Commander. What ever you
choose, don’t wait, and start now. When you have made your decision, contact your Member Training Officer and
ask for help, your Member Training Officer can help you get started and can also arrange for a mentor if you need
one, and if needed an exam when you are ready.
If you are a Division Commander, a new or recycled Flotilla Commander, and would like to get learn more about
your position, I have listed a link to the procedures manual below that can help you out.
Flotilla Commander: http://www.uscg.mil/directives/cim/16000-16999/CIM_16791_5.pdf
Division Commander: http://uscg.mil/hq/cg3/cg3pcx/publications/auxmanuals/AUXDivisionProceduresGuide.pdf
Oh, by the way did you think about taking an e-class, or attending a C-School. If so check out the list of classes
that are available and where that will be held.
http://www.cschool.auxservices.org/c_school_matrix.htm
http://cschool.auxservices.org/
To get more information on training check out the USCG Aux Web site at http://www.cgaux.org/ and don’t
forget to check with your Member Training Officer.
Whatever you set as a goal for the winter don’t forget to fill in the correct form and send it on to your IS officer.
Ensure that your exams and the results from online testing are forwarded to Mr. Al Plaehn in order to complete your
qualification for IT, VE, MDV, APC, and OSC.
Training keeps our mind engaged, and helps our training skill set to become better qualified at whatever we
decide to do.
Page 15
'Tis the season to prepare for cold water and ice
By: Frank Jennings, Jr.
Recreational Boating & Water Safety Program Manager
Ninth Coast Guard District, Cleveland, Ohio
Despite the fact that the traditional Great Lakes boating season is over, there is still a fair amount of
recreational activity occurring in and on the water around the Great Lakes region. During the winter months,
waterfowl hunting, fishing, boating and paddling remain popular where open water is present. In those areas where
ice forms, activities such as ice-fishing, ice-boating and snow machine riding are more commonplace. But, whether
“soft” or “hard,” one ever-present danger lies in wait for all users: life-threatening cold water.
Cold water kills. And, most folks are surprised to learn cold water is defined as any water temperature less
than 70 degrees Fahrenheit. The fact that the air temperature might be above freezing is irrelevant. It’s water
temperature that matters most. This is particularly relevant when you consider capsizing is the leading cause of
boating accidents involving small recreational vessels.
During the next several months it’s imperative that those who pursue their sport in or on the water ensure
that necessary precautions are taken to have a safe and enjoyable recreational experience. For many outdoor
enthusiasts, much of the equipment will sound familiar and is not at all different from the equipment used by
boaters during the traditional season. And, as with boating, this equipment when worn and used properly, will buy
valuable time and potentially, save lives.
According to annual Coast Guard Boating Safety statistics, the majority of boating fatalities result from
drowning. Of those who die each year the majority of victims - 90 percent - were not wearing a lifejacket, also
known as a Personal Flotation Device (PFD). Most victims probably never expected to find themselves in the water.
An unexpected capsizing or fall into warm water is dangerous enough. An unexpected capsizing or fall into cold
water or an unexpected fall through the ice, nearly always proves fatal.
When one experiences sudden cold water immersion, the body reacts with an involuntary response known as
“Torso Reflex.” Also known as "Mammalian Diving Reflex" or "Inhalation Response," this physiological reaction
consists of a sudden gasp that occurs when the face comes in contact with cold water. Rescue personnel are
taught to cover their nose and mouth when entering cold water, to limit the effects of this phenomenon.
However, if an inexperienced individual is immersed unexpectedly, they are most likely going to inhale frigid
water into their lungs. During this initial phase, the victim may experience hyperventilation that is 600 to 1000
percent greater than the normal breathing rate. Panic ensues. If the victim is not wearing a PFD, more often than
not the drowning process begins.
Fortunately, an inherently buoyant PFD helps keep the victim afloat without effort, buying valuable time
needed to regain situational awareness, composure and control of one's actions. The shock of entering the cold
water should only last one minute. During this time, the victim must concentrate on remaining calm and keeping
their airway free of water. If they are wearing a PFD, there is a greater chance of recovering from the consequences
of being immersed and therefore, a greater chance of survival.
As with inherently buoyant PFDs, Coast Guard-approved inflatable PFDs are excellent, quality devices.
However, during the cold weather months or when recreating on ice, an inherently buoyant PFD provides an added
measure of safety because it floats without the wearer having to perform any additional steps. Manually inflatable
PFDs require the wearer to activate a CO2 cartridge, usually by pulling on a toggled lanyard. In a sudden cold water
immersion, a wearer would have to have the presence of mind to multi-task - overcoming any onset of panic while
activating the device, simultaneously.
If a wearer insists on using an inflatable PFD for cold weather activities, a Coast Guard-approved automatic
inflatable may be a better option. However, special care must be taken to ensure the inflation mechanism does not
freeze or otherwise become inoperable. One other point to consider: an inherently buoyant PFD has better thermal
properties, which helps insulate the body better than an inflatable.
Continued on page 17
Page 16
...cold water and ice, continued from page 16
Regardless, without the added measure of safety a PFD provides, the drowning process could begin
immediately upon entering the water. And, once the drowning process begins, it is highly unlikely a victim will
survive without outside intervention or tremendous willpower to overcome the situation.
Once in the water hypothermia is the next threat to survival, even if wearing proper personal flotation gear.
The body may lose heat up to 25 times faster in cold water than in cold air. As the body loses this heat, blood
retreats from the extremities. As hypothermia progresses, the victim suffers physical and mental difficulties and
may become disoriented or unconscious. Severe hypothermia can lead to death or be a contributing factor in
death.
Canadian thermo-physiology professor, Dr. Gordon Giesbrecht, Ph.D, has conducted extensive research
related to cold water immersion. As a result of this research, he has developed the 1-10-1 formula for helping to
survive such events.
According to Dr. Giesbrecht's formula, cold shock - the "Torso Reflex" - will pass in one minute. Hence: the
"1" in the formula. During this initial phase, a victim may experience hyperventilation that is 600 to 1000 percent
greater than the normal breathing rate. During this time, the victim must concentrate on keeping their airway free
of water.
The "10" of the formula refers to the following 10 minutes during which the victim will lose the effective use
of fingers, arms or legs "for meaningful movement." Therefore, it will be imperative that a victim focus on "self
rescue" techniques and continue to keep their airway clear. At this point, a victim who is not wearing a PFD will
most likely drown because they will no longer be physically able to tread water to remain afloat.
The final "1" in the formula refers to the amount of time one has before unconsciousness results from
hypothermia. Of course, if one employs techniques to delay its onset, such as huddling with other survivors or
climbing atop a capsized boat, this time may be prolonged.
So, try to remember 1-10-1, if you plan to be on the water or on the ice during the winter season. Outdoor
winter enthusiasts can find out more about 1-10-1 and cold water safety by visiting “Cold Water Boot Camp,” online
at: http://coldwaterbootcampusa.org/
Although expensive, winter outdoor enthusiasts who frequent open water or ice should also consider
investing in a “Dry Suit” or some other Coast Guard-approved full-body flotation survival gear. This type of survival
gear offers the best protection against hypothermia in the marine environment, by insulating the body from direct
contact with the water. This in turn, limits the loss of body heat.
If not wearing full-body survival gear when involved in a capsizing, the best way to reduce the chances of
suffering severe hypothermia is to get as much of the body out of the water as possible. In a capsizing situation, the
victim should try to climb on top of the overturned vessel or if possible, any other large floating debris available,
such as a cooler. The victim needs to maintain a positive attitude and conserve energy until rescuers arrive.
“Think twice with ice.” Because of a variety of factors, varying levels of ice thickness are common on the
Great Lakes. Always check the weather and ice conditions before any trip out onto the ice. Ice thickness is not
consistent. Water currents, particularly around narrow spots, bridges, inlets and outlets are always suspect for thin
ice. Stay away from cracks, seams, pressure ridges, slushy areas and darker areas for these signify thinner ice.
Never venture onto snow covered ice since the snow will obscure the condition of the ice underneath.
If one experiences a fall through the ice, they should attempt to pull themselves out of the water and back
onto solid ice or land as quickly as possible. Understandably, this may be very difficult. For this reason, icefishermen, ice-boaters and snow machine riders should carry a pair of ice picks or screw drivers with them when
ever on the ice. These will allow a victim to dig into the ice around them and use the handles to help pull them from
the water.
And, while on the subject of lifejackets and survival gear; boaters shouldn't forget "Man's Best Friend." Dogs
also need the added protection of flotation while enduring colder weather. Not all dogs swim or swim well. Not all
dogs like to swim. Like their human companions, dogs are just as susceptible to the harsh elements, including the
effects of hypothermia. Several manufacturers make lifejackets specifically for dogs, in a variety of sizes. These are
a must, especially if one's four-legged friend gets underway or heads onto the ice, too.
Continued on page 18
Page 17
...cold water and ice, continued from page 17
The Great Lakes offer a winter wonderland of activities. To
help enjoy those activities safely the outdoor recreational
enthusiast should considering adopting the following safety
practices whenever on the water or ice during the cold weather and
winter months:
- Leave behind a detailed trip itinerary with family and friends.
- Never venture out alone; plan outings with others who can be
available to assist in an emergency.
- Check the weather. Lake-effect snow, high winds and
dropping temperatures are a good indicator an outing should
be postponed.
- Carry all required safety equipment. Carry visual distress
signals and a quality whistle in the pockets of safety gear that
is being worn so it’s close at hand in an emergency.
A Belle Isle Coast Guard Station ice rescuer
simulation on the pond by the station, 2011.
Photo, Judy Martin
- Carry a registered Personal Locator Beacon (PLB), which can
send a satellite-based alert in the event of an emergency. Search and rescue command centers are on watch
for such alerts 24 hours a day.
- Affix an orange identification sticker, with name and contact phone information, to all paddle craft. This will
facilitate notification by rescue agencies in the event a vessel is found floating empty and adrift. Stickers are
available from the Ninth Coast Guard District Auxiliary and Boating Safety Branch, by sending an email to:
frank.t.jennings@uscg.mil
- Carry a VHF-FM marine radio. Consider a waterproof, hand-held model that can be kept on one’s person.
Continually monitor weather forecasts and heed all severe weather warnings.
- Pack gear in clear, watertight bags to limit exposure to moisture.
- Take care when moving about a boat, to prevent a fall overboard or worse, a capsizing. Don't rush and
maintain situational awareness.
- Don't consume alcohol. It impairs judgment and reduces the body's ability to fend off the cold.
- Take along high energy snacks and fluids that will limit dehydration.
- Set limits. Know when it's time to call it a day. There'll always be another day, another outing and at the very
least, another season on the Great Lakes.
The “Mainstream” is published three times per year by the Ninth Central Region,
United States Coast Guard Auxiliary, John Socha, Editor, at no cost to the US Coast
Guard or the Government.
Mail articles to 7242 Flamingo, Algonac, MI 48001,
E-mail sochajohn@hotmail.com. Dick Martin, District Commodore; Llorens Chenevert,
District Chief of Staff; Mark Villeneuve, District Captain-South; Ray Roberts, District
Captain-Central; Dora Carl Broberg, District Captain-North.
Confidentiality Notice: PRIVACY ACT OF 1974: The disclosure of the personal
information contained in this publication is subject to the provisions contained in
the Privacy Act of 1974. The subject Act, with certain exceptions, prohibits the
disclosure, distribution, dissemination or copying of any material containing the
home address, home telephone number, spouses names, and social security
numbers, except for official business. Violations may result in disciplinary action
by the Coast Guard and/or civilian criminal sanctions.
Page 18